Niagara City Cruises Hornblower
Experience the raw power of Niagara Falls up close on an exhilarating boat cruise, feeling the mist and hearing the roar of the water.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warm weather, vibrant atmosphere
Niagara City Cruises Hornblower
Best Time
Warm weather, vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the raw power of Niagara Falls up close on an exhilarating boat cruise, feeling the mist and hearing the roar of the water.
"The absolute must-do in Niagara Falls. Get up close to the waterfall by boat."
🎯 Wear Waterproof Shoes
Your feet will get wet! Opt for waterproof shoes or sandals, or go barefoot for the best experience.
📱 Protect Your Phone
Use a waterproof case or bag for your phone to capture photos and videos without damage from the mist.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Voyage to the Falls
Niagara City Cruises Dock
Get thrillingly close to the thundering Horseshoe Falls and feel the immense power and mist.
Horseshoe Falls Up Close
Near Horseshoe Falls
Experience the sheer force and roar of the iconic Horseshoe Falls, a truly unforgettable sensory immersion.
Panoramic Falls Views
Onboard the cruise
Witness breathtaking views of both the American and Canadian Falls from a unique vantage point on the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Mist!
Book Ahead to Beat Queues
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Waterproof Shoes
Your feet will get wet! Opt for waterproof shoes or sandals, or go barefoot for the best experience.
📱 Protect Your Phone
Use a waterproof case or bag for your phone to capture photos and videos without damage from the mist.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and skip the ticket lines by purchasing your Niagara City Cruises tickets in advance.
🎒 Pack Light
Bring only essentials. A change of clothes and a waterproof bag are highly recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Waterproof Shoes
Your feet will get wet! Opt for waterproof shoes or sandals, or go barefoot for the best experience.
📱 Protect Your Phone
Use a waterproof case or bag for your phone to capture photos and videos without damage from the mist.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and skip the ticket lines by purchasing your Niagara City Cruises tickets in advance.
🎒 Pack Light
Bring only essentials. A change of clothes and a waterproof bag are highly recommended.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The boat offers incredible photo opportunities of the falls and rainbows in the mist.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about Niagara City Cruises, calling it an unforgettable, thrilling, and must-do experience. The close proximity to the Horseshoe Falls and the exhilarating mist are major highlights, creating a powerful sensory encounter. While getting soaked is part of the fun, some note that lower body and shoes will get wet despite ponchos.
"I had an unforgettable experience with Niagara City Cruises! The moment we boarded the boat, everything was well-organized and smooth. The staff were friendly, helpful, and made sure everyone was safe and ready to enjoy the ride.
The boat ride itself was absolutely thrilling. Getting up close to the Horseshoe Falls was simply breathtaking. You can feel the power of the falls—the roar, the mist, the energy—it’s something you have to experience in person to fully understand. Be prepared to get soaked, but that’s part of the fun! They provide ponchos, which help a lot, but I still got pretty wet (and loved every second of it).
The views from the boat are incredible, and it’s a perfect way to see both the American and Canadian sides of the falls. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this is a must-do activity when visiting Niagara Falls.
Highly recommended. It’s not just a boat ride—it’s a memory you’ll keep forever."
Liam Leeson
"Very interesting.
I bought my tickets online, so i don't miss my schedule.
We take pictures first (that you can pay for them later) and than continue to take the raincoat. The raincoat only protect your upper body.
My pants and shoes are all wet. No worries, they have washroom for you to change your outfit.
I enjoy the trip, it's so refreshing.
They have food court (with live music) and gift shop too."
Ledy Situmorang
"Niagara City Cruises is hands down one of the best ways to see Niagara Falls up close! From the moment we stepped on board, everything was well-organized and smooth. The crew was friendly, helpful, and made sure everyone felt safe and informed.
The boat ride itself was absolutely breathtaking – feeling the mist on your face while standing just feet away from the thundering Horseshoe Falls is something you have to experience at least once. The views from the deck were spectacular, and the ponchos they provide kept us mostly dry (though we didn’t mind getting a little wet – it’s part of the fun!).
The tour isn’t too long, so it fits perfectly into a day trip itinerary, and it’s suitable for all ages. Highly recommended for families, couples, and even solo travelers. A must-do activity if you’re visiting Niagara Falls!"
KAJAN KUGAN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a day trip from Toronto to Niagara Falls. Many tour operators offer bus tours that include transportation and tickets to Niagara City Cruises. Alternatively, you can drive or take public transport, which takes about 1.5-2 hours.
Niagara City Cruises is located at 5920 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, right at the base of Clifton Hill and steps from the Falls.
Yes, there are several parking lots available near the Niagara City Cruises dock. Fees may vary depending on the lot and time of year. It's advisable to check the official Niagara Parks website for current parking information.
Absolutely! Niagara City Cruises is conveniently located at the base of Clifton Hill, making it easily accessible on foot from the main viewing areas of Niagara Falls.
Once at Niagara Falls, you can walk to the cruise dock. The WEGO bus system also connects various attractions around Niagara Parks, including the cruise terminal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Niagara City Cruises typically range from CAD 43 for adults (13+) and CAD 28 for children (5-12), plus tax. Infants (2 and under) are usually free. It's best to check the official website for the most current pricing.
You can purchase tickets online through the official Niagara City Cruises website, at the ticket booths on-site, or at kiosks. Booking online in advance is recommended to avoid long queues.
While discounts are not always readily available, keep an eye on the official Niagara City Cruises website or local tourism sites for potential promotions or package deals, especially during off-peak seasons.
Your ticket includes the boat tour, a complimentary mist poncho, and onboard audio commentary. You can also purchase photos taken during the cruise.
Operating hours vary seasonally. The cruises typically run from spring through fall. It's essential to check the official Niagara City Cruises schedule for the specific dates and times of operation during your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to get wet! Waterproof shoes or sandals are highly recommended, and consider bringing a change of clothes. The provided ponchos offer some protection but won't keep you entirely dry. +1
The Voyage to the Falls boat tour is approximately 20 minutes long, offering an intense and unforgettable experience.
Yes, you will definitely get wet from the mist of the falls! This is a core part of the thrilling experience. The provided ponchos help, but getting soaked is part of the adventure.
Yes, the boat tour is suitable for all ages, including families with children. Children aged 2 and under often ride for free.
Yes, you can take photos, but it's highly recommended to use a waterproof case for your phone or camera to protect it from the mist. Professional photos are also available for purchase.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a food court with live music and a gift shop located at the Niagara City Cruises terminal, offering convenient options before or after your cruise.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted on the boat. It's best to consume them before boarding or purchase from the onboard or terminal facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Use a waterproof phone case or camera bag. Stand towards the front for the most dramatic mist shots, but be prepared to get soaked. The sides and back offer slightly drier, but still excellent, views.
Yes, the mist from the falls often creates beautiful rainbows, especially when the sun is shining. The boat cruise provides excellent vantage points to capture these natural phenomena.
Yes, professional photographers are on board, and you can purchase photos of yourself and your group after the cruise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the mist can be intense, the provided ponchos offer some protection, and the short duration of the ~20-minute ride keeps younger attention spans engaged. Pro-tip for families: Bring a change of clothes for the kids (and yourselves!) and waterproof footwear. Consider purchasing photos of your family enjoying the experience, as they make for great souvenirs. The onboard audio commentary also provides interesting facts about the falls that kids might enjoy.
💰 Budget Travelers
Booking tickets online in advance can sometimes offer slight savings or package deals. To maximize your budget, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when crowds are smaller and prices might be more stable.
💑 Couples
Consider booking an evening cruise if available, as seeing the falls illuminated at night or during a fireworks display can add an extra layer of magic to your experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Mist: What to Expect on the Cruise
This drenching is considered a highlight by many, adding to the exhilarating and unforgettable nature of the ride. Travelers often describe it as a 'magical, beautiful storm' and a sensory overload in the best way possible. The key is to embrace the experience and not worry too much about staying dry.
For those concerned about their belongings, bringing a waterproof bag or case for electronics is crucial. Some visitors even recommend wearing waterproof shoes or going barefoot to avoid soggy footwear. The cruise duration is short, around 20 minutes, making it an intense but brief encounter with the raw power of nature.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Timing, and Tips
Consider the best time to visit based on crowd levels and weather. Weekday mornings generally offer a less crowded experience, while summer afternoons and evening fireworks cruises are popular but busier.
Beyond the mist, the cruise offers spectacular panoramic views of both the American and Canadian Falls, providing unique photo opportunities.
+1 Many visitors also appreciate the friendly and organized staff who ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. 
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit